What exactly is the CARE Summer Bridge Program?
The CARE Summer Bridge Program is a unique program designed to assist first-generation college students in making the transition from high school to college. The program targets students who may be disadvantaged because of economic, educational or cultural circumstances in their lives. The program brings entering college students to campus in the summer where they take courses and participate in special programming designed to acquaint them with college life and prepare them for collegiate success. Once the summer is over, students continue to receive support services through the CARE program.
What are the benefits of being in the CARE Summer Bridge Program?
- Early enrollment in college
- Help in making the adjustment to college life
- Paid room, board, tuition and books for qualified students
- A comprehensive orientation to campus life, including academic policies and student rights and responsibilities
- Familiarity with campus and the local community
- Learn campus survival and study skills
- Free tutorial services
- An opportunity to meet and interact with University faculty, staff and administrators
- Access to a warm, supportive, caring environment while in college
- Four-year grants for eligible first-generation college students
- Participation in various academic, social and culturally enriching activities
- Make lifelong friends
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How long is a student in the CARE Summer Bridge Program?
Participation in the CARE Summer Bridge Program does not end once the summer term is over. All students who enroll at Florida State University through this program must continue to participate in year-round academic and support activities offered by the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE). Although most of the CARE-related activities occur during the freshman and sophomore years, a student’s relationship with CARE continues until graduation.
Questions about SSSP
What is Student Support Services Program?
The Student Support Services Program (SSSP) is one of the TRIO programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. SSSP provides supplemental academic, developmental and enrichment services to help low-income, first-generation students succeed in college. The goals of SSSP are to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants and to prepare them for life after graduation, whether that means employment or graduate/professional education.
How can SSSP benefit me?
Benefits of the program include:
- Academic advising
- Career counseling and assistance
- Tutorial services
- A computer lab exclusive to SSSP and CARE participants
- Cultural and social enrichment activities, such as plays, lectures, workshops, recreational activities
- Counseling support to assist with personal, social, and emotional needs
- Mentoring by successful upper-level students
- Grant-in-aid supplement offered to participants who qualify*
*The criteria for this supplement are based on grant specifications, financial aid eligibility, and participation in SSSP sponsored activities
Who can participate?
To be admitted to SSSP students must meet federal guidelines, which include being a first-generation college student and meeting federally-established income standards. Participants must enroll as full-time students and participate in program activities. Transfer students who were enrolled in SSSP programs at their previous colleges may join the FSU program.
